The Pearl of French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity located in the South Pacific Ocean. An astounding vacation spot, this mid-ocean archipelago is made up of five unique island groups such as Society Islands, the Marquesas Islands, the Austral Islands, the Tuamotu Archipelago, and the Gambier Islands.

In other words, French Polynesia consists of its main island Tahiti and 117 other islands and atolls. Each of the French Polynesian Islands, better known as Tahitian Islands, is truly a paradise on the earth and is endowed with unspoilt beaches, soaring mountain peaks, extensive coral reefs, and distinct natural history. About 85% of the French Polynesian population is constituted by the Maohi - the native people of French Polynesia and the Demis, inhabitants that are blend of European and Polynesian descent. 10% of the population is European and the remaining is Asians, mainly the Chinese.

Of the French Polynesian Islands, perhaps the most sought after is Society Islands, containing Tahiti, Tetiaroa, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and Raiatea. The main as well as the largest of the French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is one of the most romantic places on the earth, bestowed with lush tropical region, deep green valleys, cool streams and rivers, wonderful beaches, and magnificent forest areas. While your stay at Tahiti, take excursion to such destinations as the Harrison Smith Botanical Gardens, the Museum of Tahiti, and Gauguin Museum. Further, an array of activities can be enjoyed here from golf and deep sea fishing to island adventure tours and helicopter excursions.

Located about 150 km north-west of Tahiti, Bora Bora is truly an oasis of romance and beauty, with emerald-like green hills and chameleon-shaped lagoons. Bora Bora's attractions, among many others, are lagoonarium, enclosed by coral reef, Matira Beach, Marae Temples, and Tetiaroa Atoll & Bird Sanctuary. Also, a great destination in Society Islands is Moorea, which is much famed for its saw-toothed emerald views. Equally worth mentioning are Huahine, bounded by mountainous reef and consisting of two volcanic ranges, and Raiatea with its sister island Taha'a.

Above all, many of the islands in Society Archipelago such as Tahiti and Bora Bora are considered a great destination for conducting weddings as well as for a memorable honeymoon.

About 1500 km north-east of Tahiti is the Marquesas Islands, consisting of twelve volcanic islands, of which only six are inhabited. With the town of Taiohae as its economic and administrative region, Nuku Hiva is the main island in this archipelago. Hiva Oa, with a museum dedicated to the renowned French artist Paul Gauguin; Ua Poa, with impressive jagged cliffs; Ua Huka, which is much favored for its wood carvings; Tahuta, whose attractions are Archaeologic site in Hanamiai valley and Stone petroglyphs in Hanatehau valley; and Fatu Hiva, blessed with exotic flowers and herbs.

Sprawling over 1,200 km of the South Pacific, the Austral Islands are located to the south Tahiti. Among the spectacular islands in this group are Rurutu, Tubuai, Rimatara, Raivavae, and Tapa.

With more than 75 coral atolls, the Taumotu archipelago is truly picturesque. Additionally, interior lagoons in this island group are a haven for water sport activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling. Most popular among the islands in this group are Rangiroa, Manihi, and Fakarava. Gambier Islands are about 1800 km southeast of Tahiti, and comprise 14 small beautiful islands, of which the most populated and largest is the Mangareva.

Today, options are endless to explore the unparalleled beauty of the French Polynesian islands. One of the best ways is through unique yacht cruises. Almost all yacht and boat charter providers render superb choices for an enjoyable cruising in French Polynesian. For luxury lovers, yacht coupled with most sophisticated facilities are available. Even many of them offer options to enjoy a variety of water sport activities.

When comes to accommodation, choices are aplenty. Majority of the resorts and hotels in French Polynesia are replete with stylish as well as high end facilities and amenities. Some hotels also provide packages for a memorable wedding in Tahiti and Bora Bora islands. They also deal with all the legal procedures with regard to weddings in these islands. Apart from these, many hotels and resorts offer excellent options to enjoy an array of activities. There also hotels arranging for sightseeing in these islands. Much favored among the hotels in French Polynesia are Sofitel Tahiti Resort, Novotel Bora Bora Beach Resort, and Novotel Rangiroa Lagoon Resort.

About The Author-- Six exclusive luxury Sofitel and Novotel resorts in French Polynesia, including a private island, offering outstanding natural beauty, sparkling turquoise waters, and all the romance of the South Seas to travelers and honeymooners in search of the ultimate paradise island experience.

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